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Stress Relief with Help from Above

How can God provide stress relief in our lives? We know that stress is a natural part of life, but how we deal with it is completely up to us. One of our big challenges is trying to solve our problems, no matter how large, all by ourselves. We try to handle every situation with ease and expertise, as though we have been solving these same scenarios many times before. But life is not that easy, and our problems are often unusually complex. There is one person who has the answers to our problems regardless of size and complexity, yet he is often relied upon as a last resort. I am referring to God, who is always available to help, not simply when we finally give up and search for his answers. We often experience stress and worry because we allow doubt that such a God would have the answers for us or cares enough for us. We begin to doubt that a specific situation or problem really can be solved by anyone. We doubt that God will answer our requests or take care of our most basic needs. So we begin to worry and become stressed. Worrying makes us focus in the wrong direction.

Refocus.

When we are experiencing difficult times we often look inward and we focus on our difficulties. Things can appear hopeless. Any number of things can cause us stress. Keeping our focus on our own family, work and ministry challenges just leads us to experience more anxiety and stress. When we have our eyes focused on God, we learn that he is able to take all of our burdens and provide stress relief. God has a unique plan for each of our lives, and part of that plan includes taking care of our every need. That includes stress relief. We should trust God to do what is right because His ways are always best for us. Many times we don’t realize it.

One of my favorite Biblical declarations is the following verse as God is speaking to Jeremiah. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)


Ask for his help through prayer.

Instead of worrying, take everything to God in prayer. God tells us not to be anxious about anything, but instead, turn everything over to Him in prayer. Tough to do? You bet! But do it, trust him and experience the good things that happen.

He tell us: ”Do not be anxious about anything but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”(Phil 4:6)


Find ways to cope with your stress.

One way of coping with stress is by taking care of your physical well being, with exercise, proper nutrition and a good night’s rest. Keep a balance between your family time, work and ministry efforts. Life is hectic and the more you can keep schedules and responsibilities simplified, the better you will be able to find stress relief and cope with stressful situations as they arise.

Remember to take care of your spiritual life as well. Combat worrying by taking your concerns to God in prayer. Prayer allows you to have a conversation with God.

Spend time in meditation on the Biblical word of God. Learning about the people found in the Bible, their stories and their messages can be very insightful and applicable to the current situations you are experiencing, providing the stress relief you may desire. You may find that journal writing is helpful to continue to learn meaningful Biblical messages and relieve the tension you may be feeling. Writing things down can help put things in perspective as you review and reflect on the entries over time.

Lastly, offer praise. It is impossible to be stressed and praise God at the same time. Remember that regardless of how things appear, God is looking out for you, and has your best interests in mind and is a great source of stress relief. The old adage, “Count your blessings,” still holds true today.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”( Proverbs 3:5-6)

Acknowledge that God is in control.

Use the stress you experience as a reminder to turn back and rely more on God. ”If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)

Proverbs 31: Encouragement for Today


Visit this website, Proverbs 31 Ministries, for daily messages that can be sent to your email address and help you stay focused and at peace with who you are now and who you can become in the future.




One important thing that I do is look beyond myself and find ways to help others. I have found one organization that needs our help and when you look at what has been accomplished and what little can do so much for them, you really get a sense of counting your blessings! Visit this website for Orphans Unlimited Africa an understanding how you can help other orphan children less fortunate. Sometimes the best thing to do when you feel stressed is to look outward from yourself and help others. You will not only feel gratified; you will also put your own issues in better perspective. I know that Bush Bunny Brenda will appreciate your support in helping these orphan children in Africa.


A great source for more information about understanding the Bible can be found at BibleLeadership.com where there are some great discussions about how the lessons of the Bible can have a daily influence in our lives. The author, has written a book that reveals the secrets to receiving God's Infinite Blessings! A must-have book for everyone,purchase If You Do God Will.


Sharing Your Talent With Others

The Serenity Prayer

Stress Relief Through Prayer

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